The mission of Horsemen’s Council

of Illinois is to educate, mobilize

and represent Horsemen and

the equine industry to ensure a

thriving Illinois horse community.

P O Box 788 Quincy, IL 62306-0788

Phone: 217-689-4224 Email: hci@horsemenscouncil.org

Need a speaker or presentation for your group?

Horsemen’s Council of Illinois board members come from a diverse equestrian background and can provide presentations on a wide range of topics from horse health & disease, legal, land use, trail rid-

ing, driving, showing, racing, disease and legislation.

We'd like to update your group on HCI activities and goals this year to serve Illinois horsemen. We have several new programs, legisla-

tion and initiatives that we'd like to tell you about

We would also like to hear about the needs of horsemen in your ar-

ea to find out how we might work together on solutions.

If you are interested contact the HCI office.

217-689-4224 or

hci@horsemenscouncil.org

Horsemen’s Council of Illinois

Board of Directors

Sheryl King, Ph.D. - President

Makanda

Paula Briney - 1st VP

Chatham

Elaine Ramesh, Ph.D. - 2nd VP

Barrington Hills

David Nobbe, Ph.D. - Treasurer

Carpentersville

Russ Derango - Secretary

Lexington

Dennis French, DVM - Urbana

Kevin Kline, Ph.D. - Urbana

Yvonne Ocrant - Wheaton

Ron Rhoades - Seymour

Anna Ruman, DVM - Coffeen

Jim Stevens - Augusta

Jerry Sutton - Norris City

Tony Troyer-Earlville

Staff:

Cheryl Waterman, Operations Manager

In this Issue:

President’s Message 1

Trails Clean-Up 2

Legislative Activity 3

Regional Planning 4

HCI Awards 5-6

Horse Fair Report 7-8

Survey, Grants 9

Foundation, Committees

10

Membership 11

The Politics of Horses

In this increasingly divisive presidential election year, politics has become a nasty word. It doesn’t have to be. One definition of the adjec-tive “politic” is shrewd or prudent in practical matters; tactful; diplomatic. That is what the horse industry needs to be to fight remain relevant in the 21st century. To put it more bluntly, either horsemen defend their right to exist or we will cease to exist. Am I saying that I believe that horses will go extinct? Of course not. But I am saying that horse ownership and present uses of the horse will become increasingly rare or even impossible. It is happening even as you read this.

Our ability to own and enjoy our horses and to allow others to discover the joy of horses is being eroded or even outright attacked from many fronts. Urbanization and zoning restrictions, even in subur-ban and rural areas, is excluding horsekeeping. High insurance costs and a general loss of per-sonal responsibility have driven many public stables out of business. The increasing power and influence of radical animal rights advocacy that rejects animal ownership and creates onerous and unreasonable restrictions on how, when and under what conditions we can enjoy our horses is a huge threat. Without our political involvement, those with no knowledge of horses are in-creasingly deciding humane rules and environmental requirements governing horsekeeping. Access to safe and maintained trails on which to ride our horses is shrinking. Even seemingly small things like regulations concerning hauling horses, and requirements for licensure have and will continue to change. If we horse owners don’t become part of the process and get involved in these issues at the grassroots to protect and promote our passion, we have no one to blame but ourselves when we lose our freedoms.

Benjamin Franklin said, “We must, indeed, all hang together or, most assuredly, we shall all hang separately”. The horse industry is diverse and often fractioned. This favors the “divide and conquer” form of attack - - and it has worked well for opponents of various parts of our in-dustry. It is essential for our industry’s survival that horsemen recognize that our differences are much less important than our commonalities and what affects any part of the horse industry ultimately affects the whole. Numbers and a united voice matter.

The Horsemen’s Council of Illinois practices the politics of horses. HCI brings the entire horse industry under a single umbrella to promote and defend. Our political effectiveness de-pends on proving that we speak for the hundreds of thousands of horses and tens of thousands of horse owners in our state. That means we need your membership and we need the member-ship of all the horse lovers that you know. Beyond membership, we need your involvement. We need you to help us put horses in the spotlight. When HCI asks for your help to move an issue in Springfield, we need you to contact your representative – it really does matter and it really does make a difference. When we organize an event to help fellow horsemen – be it a trails work day, a fundraiser for horsemen’s disaster relief, an educational event or a campaign to get something recognized or accomplished for some aspect of our industry - we need you to respond, and to chip in for every part of our great industry. Prove that horses matter.

2016 - Issue 2 Spring 2016

Voice of the Illinois Horse IndustryVoice of the Illinois Horse IndustryVoice of the Illinois Horse Industry

P O Box 788 Quincy, IL 62306-0788 Phone: 217-689-4224 Email: hci@horsemenscouncil.org

Sheryl King, PhD President

Horsemen’s Council of Illinois

MEMBERSHIP FORM ON PAGE 11

Page 2 Horsemen’s Council of Illinois Spring 2016

Illinois Statewide Horse Trails Spring Clean-up

THANKS TO VOLUNTEERS AND IDNR

STAFF WHO COMPLETED

CLEANUP PROJECTS

AT THESE SITES!

APRIL 30

Franklin Creek State Natural Area

Elmer Stauffer - Site Office

Rock River Trail & Horsemen Assoc

Siloam Springs State Park

Mark Gerard - Site Office

Quincy Saddle Club - Ron Gaus

Illinois Prairie Path - Elgin Branch

Trail Riders of DuPage

MAY 7TH

Giant City State Park

Calvin Beckman - Site Office

Volunteer Leader - Jerry Sutton

MAY 7TH

Rock Cut State Park

Melinda Kitchens - Site Office

Valley Rider's Saddle Club - Liz Longenecker

MAY 14TH

Jubilee College State Park

Joe Bassetti - Site Office

Volunteer Leader - Jerry Lutker

Weinberg King State Park

Mark Gerard - Site Office

Volunteer Leader - Jim Stevens

IDNR land comprises 44% of the total miles of equestrian trails in the state. There are 49 sites with equestrian facil-

ities. Join us in this stewardship effort.

Let’s protect our assets.

Equestrian trails and campsites across the state recently got

some TLC from volunteers who assisted in HCI’s first annual

Trails Work Day. To bring a focus to

equestrian trail use Horsemen’s

Council of Illinois and Illinois De-

partment of Natural Resources part-

nered in the effort to have a

statewide trails work day. HCI mobi-

lized horsemen in response to con-

cerns voiced for several years that

horse trails in parks throughout the

state need attention. What began

as a single weekend event was

extended to several weekends due

to wet weather. From April 30th

through May 14th groups worked on

trimmed trees over campsites, installed pick-

et lines, picked up trash, cleared trails and

installed new signage. The weather was wet

and cold, not ideal for riding but just fine for

the clean-up and projects.

HCI board member and Trails Committee

Chair Tony Troyer says the project has sev-

eral benefits, “IDNR and the site staff now

know they can count on horsemen to

assist with volunteer labor and acquir-

ing resources for some projects. We’re

demonstrating good stewardship for

these valuable natural resources, lead-

ing by example to other user groups

and cultivating volunteer resources for

ongoing projects.”

There are workdays yet to be complet-

ed at two sites. This will become an

annual event coordinated by HCI. We

all have the opportunity to make our trails and parks better plac-

es to camp and ride! If your group is already assisting at a park,

or has a project in mind let us know by calling the HCI office at

217-689-4224 or by sending an email to

hci@horsemenscouncil.org. You will be put in touch with HCI

board member Tony Troyer who is leading the effort.

SUMMER DATES

Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Areas -TBD

John Hott - Site Office (217) 442-4915

Volunteer Leader - Denise Bingamon (217) 377-8909

Matthiessen State Park - JUNE 18

Kerry Novak - Site Office (815) 667-7551

Volunteer Leader -Tony Troyer (815) 530-4464

Siloam Springs

Weinberg King

DuPage

Giant City

Page 11 Horsemen’s Council of Illinois Spring 2016

Founded in 1987, Horsemen’s Council of Illinois is the

only statewide organization that works to serve the entire

horse community. We are amateurs, professionals, horse

hobbyists, breeders, local riding clubs and larger business-

es. Individuals and groups from all disciplines, breeds and

types of horses are welcome. We are led by a Board of

Directors and committees that address education, equine

health and welfare, trails, land use and legislative and

regulatory concerns.

Memberships are critical to HCI success for two reasons:

1) We can better represent you, your organization, your

discipline, your PASSION if we know who you are;

2) The income from memberships helps sustain the operat-ing budget of HCI and provide key services to mem-

bers.

3) There are more than 70,000 horsemen in Illinois. Please encourage others to join HCI so we can do MORE to educate, mobilize and represent horsemen.

Memberships are accepted throughout the year.

Membership Application

Name: ___________________________________

Street: ___________________________________

City: _______________ State: _______________

County: ________________ Zip: _____________

Phone: __________________________________

Email: ___________________________________

# of Horses: ____ Boarded ____ At Home: ____

Membership Levels

All memberships run January through December

Youth Membership - Free 18 years or younger can join HCI at no cost

Basic - Family Membership - $30.00 Bundle (list all family members on the membership)

Gold - Family Membership - $75.00 Includes $1 Million Excess Equine Liability Policy

Basic-Individual Membership - $25.00

Gold – Individual Membership - $50.00 Includes $1 Million Excess Equine liability Policy

Life Individual Membership - $350.00 $1 Million Excess Equine Liability insurance option, Billed $20 annually.

NEW - Optional American Horse Council

Grassroots Membership - $15.00

Organization/Business Name:

________________________________________

(Provide primary contact information above)

Number of Members: ______________________

Business & Professional Membership - $100 Bundle (up to 50 members can be listed)

Non-Profit Organizations - $50 Bundle (up to 50 members can be listed)

Supporting Association Membership - $50 Bundle (up to 50 members can be listed)

You can also join online: www.horsemenscouncil.org

Send application and payment to:

Horsemen’s Council of Illinois

P O BOX 788

Quincy, IL 62306

For more information: 217-689-4224

Member Discount Benefits

As a member of the Horsemen's Council of Illinois, you are

eligible for significant savings on nationally known products

through NTRA Advantage. Your membership entitles you to

special savings on products used for your equine farm, busi-

ness, or personal use. To enjoy the benefits of one-stop buy-

ing, call NTRA Advantage toll-free at (866) 678-4289 or vis-

it www.NTRAadvantage.com.

This package includes discounts from: John Deere, Equine

Savings, UPS, OfficeMax, Sherwin Williams, Valvoline.

HCI Member benefits: All Membership Levels: weekly email bulletin, monthly e-newsletter, equine health and legislative alerts, print news-letter, access to members only resources on website, access to professional expertise of HCI board members and speakers for your group events, regional event invitations, American Horse Council Advantage Plan, option to purchase American Horse Council Grassroots Membership at 40% discount.

Gold Level Membership: all of the above benefits and $1 mil-lion Excess Personal Equine Liability Insurance

SHARE THIS PAGE WITH OTHERS!

HCI Represents YOU!

Page 10 Spring 2016 Horsemen’s Council of Illinois

Since 1987 the Illinois Equine Foundation

has provided a tax-free way to help the Illinois

equine community through charitable giving.

The Foundation is organized exclusively for

charitable, educational, and scientific purposes

within the meaning of section 501c3 of the In-

ternal Revenue Code. Its purpose is to pro-

mote equine events, equine activities and eq-

uine education and to include the establish-

ment and administration of related scholarship

funds, grants, financial assistance, research

projects in support thereof.

Tax deductible contributions to strengthen

and support these worthwhile goals are grate-

fully accepted. Contributions can be designat-

ed as general or earmarked for specific uses.

Gifts can be made in any amount and may be

received as monetary sums, stock, annuities

and other assets, bequests from estates, en-

dowments or other means.

For more information contact the Illinois Eq-

uine Foundation through the HCI office at 217-

689-4224 or visit the Foundation page on the

HCI website.

The Illinois Equine Foundation’ s first ever ‘Pitch A Pony’ fund-raiser was a great success! This fundraiser took place at the Horse Fair on March 6

th and raised more than $1,000 for the

Illinois Equine Foundation Disaster Relief Fund. What is “Pitch-A-Pony”? Each fair goer has the opportunity to flex their muscles and see how far they can throw their pur-chased set of ponies. Participants line up around the outside

rail in the coliseum and on the count of three, try to throw their pony in a hula-hoop in the middle of the are-na. The person who gets their pony closest to the target wins a prize! It’s that simple!

Pitch A Pony was held on the last day of the Fair, Sunday March 6

th in the coliseum dur-

ing the scoring session of the Heartland Horseman’s Chal-

lenge. More than 600 ponies were pitched. Marissa Fitch won and iPad and Marin Roth won a 50 inch TV. The prizes were generously donated by John Barnard. Our thanks to context coordinator Katie McCauley.

Don’t forget this is all for a good cause! All proceeds raised from this event support the IEF Disaster Relief Fund.

Be ready for the second annual Pitch-A-Pony at Illinois Horse Fair 2017.

Horsemen’s Council of Illinois welcomes these 54 new and

renewing members since March 1st:

Individuals: Rosie Allen, Sally Atterberry, Dawn Conlin, Abi-gail Danielewicz, Dawn Faulkner, Patricia Gomes, Cynthia James, Janine Kumicich (life), Marilou Landes (life), Deanna Lan-gus, Debra LoCoco, Andrea Marcinkus (life), Kara McCleary, Mary McKinnon, Andrea Pletzke, Barb Reed, Danny Rich, Eunice Riemer, Virginia Rous, Ed Sleezer, Stephanie Speiser, Margaret Strano, Bruce Wachowski, Irene Wachowski, Richard Wash-

burn, Stephen Webel (life), Lois Haubold

Families: Kelly Baxter Family, Kristy & Chris Doyle, Tom & Kristina Hull, Daniel Kelly, Bob & Kathy Knezivich, Ken & Sha-ron Kolweier, Roger & Regina Landon, Paul LeJeune, Lynn Mal-afant, Jessica Milam, Doug & Rachel Powell, James & Nancy Rosse, Merle Taylor, Joanne Von Oehsen, Jeff & Lexi Weber,

James Winch, Roland Yeast, Brandon & Mary York

Supporting Associations: Fox Valley Trail Riders, Galesburg Boots & Saddle Club, Illinois Thoroughbred Breeders & Owners Foundation, Region XI Arabian Horse Association, Miss Rodeo

Illinois Organization

Business & Professional: The Fall Creek Ranch, Technical

Large Animal Emergency Rescue TETHER

Equine Liability Warning Signs

Now available from HCI. These signs should be

posted at every barn, entrances to premises,

arenas, trails, etc. Complies with Illinois statute

to display equine liability disclaimer. Sturdy con-

struction. Easy to read.

HCI Members: $14.00 each.

Non-Members: $20.00 each.

Price includes tax.

Shipping: $8.00 up to 4 signs.

Order your sign online from the HCI website or call

the office to place your order, 217-689-4224.

Page 3 Horsemen’s Council of Illinois Spring 2016

Legislative Action to Preserve

Illinois’ Equine Heritage

by Elaine Ramesh

Chair, Legislative Committee

Here is the latest information on what HCI is doing for you to help preserve your rights to ride and to keep horses. We’ve got several great initiatives go-ing, and have made good progress already this year.

HCI Presence in Springfield for Agricultural Legislative Day

Four HCI board members formed an action team to participate in Springfield on March 1 in Agricultural Legislative Day, sponsored by the Department of Agriculture. Agricultural organizations from throughout the state came together on that day to remind legislators of the importance of our collective industries. To-ny Troyer, Paula Briney, Russ Derango and I heard from leaders and legislators during a brief morning pro-gram, and then spent the rest of the day connecting with our elected officials to inform them about the state’s strong equine community. We brought packets of information about our organization and the eco-nomic power of the equine industry; and details of legislation we support to as many offices that the four of us could reach.

Also, during the Agricultural Legislative Day, each member agricultural organization provided a small item to contribute to a gift basket for the legislators. The Future Farmers of America delivered the baskets and box lunches to every legislator’s office. As our con-tribution to the basket, HCI provided information about HCI and passes to the Horse Fair (which just happened to be the same week as the lobby day). Since our Gov-ernor joined us for the Fair’s rodeo, we know the bas-kets found an audience.

Governor’s Proclamation Honoring Horses Issued

One of the Legislative Committee’s initiatives is to increase awareness of the benefits of horse ownership. To that end, I wrote a Proclamation request, with con-sent and input from the Board. Although we did not have it approved in time for the Horse Fair, the week after the fair the Governor signed our Proclamation. The language is provided elsewhere in this newsletter and on our website. The Proclamation recognizes the importance of horses, their benefit to the local economy and also designates December 13 as Day of the Horse in Illinois.

Legislation Filed In Spring Session

A companion resolution having the same language as the Proclamation is working its way through Springfield (SJR 0046). We also have another resolution which a downstate legislator co-sponsored on our behalf, SJR 0038. This resolution calls for a task force to look into how horse trails can be improved up-on and expanded in the state parks, and has already been recommended for approval. Understanding that there is no money to create new trails, the task force will look for ways to repurpose existing structures like rail beds, service roads and tow paths for horseback riding; or to open current trails (that horses are not now allowed on) for horseback riding.

We also lobbied for a legislative fix to allow federal funds from the Recreational Trails Program to be re-leased despite the budget impass. This was necessary because we have two projects in our state to main-tain and improve horse trails that involve RTP grants. Though the grants for the projects are approvable,

(Continued on page 4)

Board members Troyer, Briney & Derango representing HCI at Illinois Ag Legislative Day

Horsemen’s Council of Illinois Spring 2016 Page 4

Regional Planning Should Include Horsemen

there is currently no way to have the funds released to get the work done because IDOT and IDNR lack budgets. In an attempt to help get the federal money where it is supposed to go, SB 2869 (an amend-ment to the Illinois Highway Code) has been filed.

Although the spring legislative session ended without passage of the bills, all three pieces of legislation have passed the Senate and are awaiting House action. They will still be active, and will be taken up again for consideration in the fall legislative session, so please contact your representative in the House and let them know you would like them to support SJR 0046, SJR 0038 and SB 2869.

Legislation to be Filed in Fall Session

So we have three pending pieces of legislation for 2016, but we are currently working on three addition-al proposals which are likely to be filed as legislative bills this fall. Details to come later this year.

Here’s where you come in….

To keep you informed of pending bills and of future developments, our website’s Legislative News & Re-sources page (under the Home tab) will be kept updated to show the current legislation which we have ini-tiated, are following, or do support. So check back often. From time to time, we will also send out Action Alerts via email or the website to inform you when you can help by calling, writing to, or meeting with your legislator to express your support for a particular bill.

Does all of this sound interesting to you? We certainly hope so. The HCI board would love to have you join us to help in our efforts to have more supportive laws for horsemen in our state. Please contact us at hci@horsemenscouncil.org to make an inquiry about serving with us.

(Continued from page 3) Legislative Action to Preserve Illinois’ Equine Heritage

Attention Chicagoland Horse Owners! There are two important on-line surveys you can take to indicate your support for the continued right to keep horses in your backyard.

McHenry County has opened an on-line survey in conjunction with the Regional Plan-ning Commission's project to update the McHenry County 2030 Plan. The Committee has already indicated that it believes that the amount of estate zoning in the county should be reduced. If you keep horses in your backyard, then you are in estate zoning. Please take the time to make your opinion known by visiting the McHenry County website's Planning & Development page. On the left side of that page, chose opinion survey from the listing under McHenry County 2030 and Beyond subhead-ing. https://www.co.mchenry.il.us/county-government/departments-j-z/planning-development/2030-beyond

Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning is preparing a new comprehensive plan for the Chicagoland area. The project is called "On to 2050". CMAP is the comprehensive re-gional planning agency for the seven counties and 284 municipalities of metropolitan Chicago. HCI board member Elaine Ramesh recently met with CMAP and introduced HCI and the im-pact the horse industry has on the economy and quality of life for all regions of the state.

Input is being sought in a survey which can be found at www.cmap.illinois.gov. There are places in the survey to write in your comments, so be sure to let the planners know that we need to have land use guidelines that allow us to keep our horses at home under estate zon-ing. A CMAP representative will be coming to the northwest suburbs on Wednesday even-ing, June 22 to speak to suburban equestrians about the planning process and take input from equestrians. Please contact the HCI office if you are interested in attending this meeting.

Shawnee Trail Conservancy

Mountain Bike Survey 2015

Last year the Shawnee Trail Conservancy (a non-profit trail advocacy group headquartered in southern Illinois) conducted a survey of the equestrian community concerning the use of moun-tain bikes in the Shawnee National Forest (SNF). The survey results have been tabulated and turned over to the US Forest Service to be reviewed and consid-ered when they develop the next forest plant for the SNF. The purpose of this article is to summarize the survey results for the

general public.

This issue came to our attention after an unfortunate en-counter between mountain bikers and equestrians that resulted in injuries to the equestrians. At about the same time mountain bike groups began petitioning the FS to make all trails in the SNF open for mountain biking. Based on information from oth-er parts of the country it became apparent there are inherent dangers on trails shared by bikers and equestrians. At this point the directors of the STC decided it would be beneficial to poll equestrian users as to their encounters with mountain bikes and their opinions on the use of mountain bikes in the SNF. This article is a summary of the full report which can be accessed at http://shawneetrailconservancy.com/Mtn%

20Bike%20Survey%20Results.html

The survey collected results from over 460 equestrians. Seventy –eight percent of the responders considered them-selves experienced trail riders; 61% rode experienced trail mounts; and 91% of the time they were accompanied by in-experienced riders. Eighty-seven present of the responders had ridden in the SNF at one time or another. Eighty-nine per-cent have had an encounter with mountain bikers while on the trails; less than 25% of the time bikers yielded; and 13% were considered dangerous. Survey results show 71% prefer

to have separate trails for mountain bikers and equestrians.

The STC recognizes the fact that mountain bikers have a right to recreate in the SNF. However, we recognize the inher-ent dangers of having mountain bikers and equestrians using the same trails. Any trails designated for both bikers and equestrians should be with no blind curves. The officers and directors of the STC hope the survey results will help the USFS make sensible and safe decisions regarding trail usage in their

next forest plan.

Shawnee Trail Conservancy

PO Box 44

Eddyville, IL 62928

info@shawneetrailconservancy.com

The Illinois Equine Industry Research and Promotion Board is pleased to announce that the 2016 round of competitive grants have been awarded. The Board reviewed and evaluated a number of grant proposals and awarded $65,000 to these groups during a presentation at Illinois

Horse Fair on March 6th:

Southern Illinois University – research for the evaluation

of therapeutic efficacy of curcumin in arthritic horses.

University of Illinois – research in-vivo biomechanical

evaluation of the laryngeal tie-forward in horses.

Illinois Boots and Saddle Club – for facility improve-

ments.

Illinois Farm Bureau –Equine Education in the Classroom

project

Central Illinois Riding Therapy – new automatic horse

waterers at the therapy facility.

Gallatin County Fair – a project to provide additional

county fair arena lighting.

Chakota Therapeutic Riding Center – a project for fa-

cility improvements.

New Kingdom Riders – a project for an outdoor riding

arena.

Quincy Saddle Club – Siloam Spring State Park Eques-

trian Campground hitching rails.

TETHER – Technical Large Animal Rescue equipment

start-up.

Tony Troyer in partnership with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources – Matthiessen State Park Equestri-

an Trails project.

Refuge Ranch – partial funding for the Quest Program.

Salem Ranch – outdoor arena fencing and south pas-

ture fencing.

Adams County Fair - additional stalls to new horse

barn.

Potential grant recipients are encouraged to network and develop a grant for their local area that will benefit all equine enthusiasts. Proposals are due every year on No-vember 15th and awarded during the Illinois Horse Fair in

March of each year.

The Illinois Equine Industry Research and Promotion Board is an Illinois not-for-profit entity, organized to provide re-search, promotion and education for the equine industry in Illinois. Authorized by the enabling legislation, the Equine Promotion Board collects a voluntary assessment on equine feed purchased in Illinois. Run by a 12-member board of directors, the Equine Promotion is responsible for the collec-tion, monitoring and disbursements of the equine checkoff

funds. To learn more, visit www.iepb.org

Horsemen’s Council of Illinois Spring 2016 Page 9

Youth Judging Results

Coming from three states, 185 youth ages 8 to 19 entered

the All-Youth Horse Judging trials. Competition was broken

up into two age divisions Juniors, aged 8 to 13 & Seniors

aged 14-19. The diversity of the contestant’s horse breed

knowledge was tested with the eight classes that were pre-

sented to them. Four halter classes and four performance

classes were judged. Contestants were scored on how close-

ly their ranking of the horses in each class matched the offi-

cial placings as determined by a panel of experienced

horse judges. Awards were given to the top ten individuals

in each age division along with the top five teams in each

age division. Trophy duffels were given to the champion

individuals and teams as well. Thanks to Debra Hagstrom

and her team for organizing this great event.

Sr Individual Ranking

1 Monique Garrett - Madison County Mane Event

2 Josa Comstock - McHenry 4-H

3 Grace Schumacher - Plymouth FFA Team A

4 Brenna Berns - Carroll Boots N Spurs

5 Emily McDermott - Lucky Horseshoe Blue Team

2016 All-Youth Horse Judging Trials Senior Team Ranking

1 McLean County Big Hitters

2 Warren County

3 FFA Horse Squad

4 McHenry 4-H

5 4-H SPIN

Jr Individual Ranking

1 Amanda Hall - Shelby County

2 Charlotte Toohill - Dewitt County

3 Sarah Miller - UCET

4 Hannah Maher - Knox County

5 Olivia Charles - Bond/Carol County

2016 All-Youth Horse Judging Trials Junior Team Ranking

1 Lucky Horseshoes

2 McLean County Champions

3 Sangamon/Menard

4 Bond/Carol County 4-H

5 UCET

Congratulations to all and thank you for participating!

Heartland Horseman’s Challenge

Adam Richardson was named winner of The

Heartland Horseman’s Challenge, a judged

competition covering all days of the Illinois

Horse Fair, where a trainer is given the oppor-

tunity to work with a horse unknown to them,

culminating in a freestyle ride or challenge

course, allowing each competitor to showcase

their abilities and talents. This year’s challenge

partnered trainers with off the track Thorough-

breds. 5 of the OTTBs were adopted. The event

was sponsored by ADM Alliance Nutrition.

Liberty Class - The winner of Liberty was

Evan from Horsemeister Friesians followed by

Bell Bottom Cool Dude and Crusador.

Breed and Sport - was led by Friesians, then

Vaulters, and Tennessee Walkers

Stall Decorating Winners: Mini Whinney

Farms, David Davis, Tennessee Walkers.

Volunteers Make It Happen!

Without the dedication of dozens of volunteers working all aspects of the event, Horse Fair would never hap-pen. Thanks isn’t enough!

COLISEUM/LIVESTOCK/CLINICIANS Jerry Sutton, Jim Stevens, Tim Boyer, Paula

Briney, Dee Dee Rea, Wes Lynch, Liz Carter, Cricket Simons, Dale Waterman, Jeff Kindhart,

Tracy Taft, Mike Taft HORSE CHECK-IN/BREED & SPORT/

STALLIONS/Horses for Sale Paula Leifel, Cheryl Crowdson, Jan Marcott, Vicki Simons, Annette Donaldson,, Marty & Chris Power, Pam Siebert, Emily Corum, Kim

Stout-Brown, Sally Atterberry, Kimberly Rhoad-es, Stacy Bowman, Alicia Pool, Dennis French,

Nina French, Rhonda Baum TICKETING

Karen Jones, Sheree King, Dave Nobbe, Char-lene Lynch, Illinois High School Rodeo

OFFICE Cheryl Dement, Mindy Bell, Elaine Craver, Daryl

Nobbe, Margie Thrash, Loretta White, Kevin Kline, Vicki Simons, Brenna Kindhart, Kerry

Grunloh - IT, Amy Nelson - Media PITCH-A-PONY

Katie McCauley, Betty Stevens, Sally Rush, Carol Dilbeck

GROUNDS Dennis Monroe, Robb Lippert, Chuck Cooch, Nathan Lippert, Robb Lippert, Amy Monroe,

Blair Monroe, Rechelle Monroe, Stuart Morgan, Ethan Woodard, Jonathan Rhoades, Russ De-

rango, Clint Derango, Mike Welsh TRAM DRIVERS

Ralph Young, Larry Munro, Pam Munro, Marc Rogers, Robb Lippert, Nathan Lippert, Gary

Connelley CARRIAGE DRIVERS

Jeff & Becky Hanlin, Zach Hileman, Shawn & Danielle Londrigan, Tony Troyer,

SEMINAR PRESENTERS Richard Keyworth, David Genadek, Dale Myler,

Rachel Boyce, DVM, Susan Cain, EdD, Richard Balsbaugh, PhD, Kevin Kline, PhD, Chuck Sheahan, Deke Carls, DVM, Rebecca Lidy, Nina French, Todd Reddig, Ida Hammer, Nicole Gil-

bert, DVM, Lindsey Perry, Phil Farrell, Linda Sitton, Land of Lincoln Horseshoers ,

Midwest Horseshoeing School, Dennis French, DVM, Scott Austin, DVM,

SEMINAR MODERATORS Meghan Cox, Stephanie White, Lois Guyon, Ruth Fennick, Anne Corbin, Jenne Rosegay,

Crystal Welsh, Sheree King HOSPITALITY/KIDS CORNER

Kim Dresch, Millie Hellyer, Katie McCauley, Teri Derango, Sara Burch, Jacob Dresch, Libby

South, Mark Dresch, Janis Cooch, Charlene Lynch, Tanner Greathouse,

Rusty Mecum ALL YOUTH JUDGING

Debra Hagstrom, Will Corum, Emily Corum, Dana Taylor, Elaine Craver, Ericka Lee, Jake

Lee, Molly McGhee, Stacey McGhee, Sam Marusiak, Laure Southwood, Cori Ellioitt, Dan-ielle Neisdendorf, Lauren Wells, Paul Roger, Theresa Boehm, Sydney Boehm, Carli Miller,

Rachel Torbert, Hana Murphy HEARTLAND HORSEMAN’S CHALLENGE

Dave Nobbe, Dee Dee Rea, Tim Boyer, Jody Powell, Dennis Cappel, Jud Carter

IHF QUEEN PAGEANT Anne Marie Connelly, Virginia Smith, Kaylynn Hall, Jessica Hall, Tracy Hall, Michelle Smith,

Olivia Ree, Diane Connelly, Kiersten Pratt,

Becca Schweiter

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

Dean Scoggins Memorial Scholarship

Sarah Maggert was awarded the 2016 Dean

Scoggins Memorial Scholarship during the Horse

Fair. She received $1,000 toward educational

expenses at the University of Illinois College of

Veterinary Medicine.

The Scoggins scholarship was initiated in 2007

to honor the memory of the late Dr. R. Dean

Scoggins, DVM, a dedicated horseman in addi-

tion to being a skilled veterinary practitioner

and faculty member at the University of Illinois

College of Veterinary Medicine. He spent a

great deal of time promoting the strength and

integrity of the horse industry through his educa-

tional efforts, teaching both on-campus and off-

campus as an Illinois State Specialist with U of I

Extension.

Miss Illinois Horse Fair 2016 - Alexandra Homberger (right)

Jr. Miss Illinois Horse Fair 2016 - Natalie Schimp (left) Photo: Mane Event Promotions

HUNDREDS OF PHOTOS ON-LINE! See More of Illinois Horse Fair in Pictures from

Our Event Photographer: Mane Event Promotions

http://maneeventpromotions.pixieset.com/

Horsemen’s Council of Illinois Spring 2016 Page 8

IHF Queen Pageant

During the three days of competition, 8 candidates displayed their skills in a 4:00 minute horsemanship performance, 1:00 minute public speech given to an audience on the Fair's main stage, and interviewed with judges for 4:00 minutes. These young ladies must prove that they can represent the Illinois Horse Industry with style! We welcomed an array of horse breeds and disciplines from Missouri Fox Trotters, to OTTB's and hunter/jumpers to barrel racers. Candidates were wel-comed to the rodeo performances in a beautiful carriage and sold 50/50 tickets to raise funds for the pageant!

Miss- Alexandrea Hemberger of Auburn Illinois. Rode her Pinto Gelding, Bernie, and scored 276/300. She will attend Universi-ty of Kentucky in the fall as a freshman.

Jr. Miss- Natalie Schimp of Eldorado, IL. Rode her AQHA Mare, My Rod's Knockin' or "Knockers". She scored 271/300 points. She attends Eldorado High School.

Miss Horsemanship: Rebecca Henry

Jr. Miss Horsemanship: Gracie McCullers

Essay: Gracie McCullers

Miss Congeniality: Danielle Sill

Page 5 Horsemen’s Council of Illinois Spring 2016

HCI to Honor Horse and Horsemen

The Horsemen’s Council of Illinois Ambassador Award honors an HCI member organization or an HCI indi-vidual member who has done an outstanding job of fostering and supporting the equestrian way of life in Illinois. Eligibility: Individual must be an Illinois resident and at

least 18 years of age. Organization or individual must be an HCI

member. Organization must be Illinois-based. Criteria: Organization or individual demonstrates excellence and outstanding service to the equestrian commu-nity in one or more of the following categories: putting on events and/or providing education for

the non-equestrian community to introduce them to horses

helping to open new horse trails or provide new public horse-related amenities

working diligently to improve or maintain exist-ing horse related-amenities

obtaining favorable publicity to promote an Illi-nois equestrian lifestyle

use of horses in a way that engages and bene-fits the public

An individual or an organization may only receive the award once, and only one award will be pre-sented each year.

There are thousands of horsemen, horsewomen and organizations in Illinois who positively influence others in the equine community and serve as examples of good sportsmanship, good horsemanship and promoting the equestri-an way of life in Illinois. Also, there are thousands of Illinois horses who have impacted individual lives as well as the equine industry.

Horsemen’s Council of Illinois has established two annual awards to celebrate the importance of the horse and equestrian life in our state.

Nominations for these awards will be accepted from July 1 through October 1. Honorees will be announced at Illi-nois Horse Fair in March. Now is the time to submit an award nomination for these special individuals, organizations and animals.

The Horsemen’s Council of Illinois Dust Commander Lifetime Achievement Award

Dust Commander was a small, unassuming chestnut thoroughbred born in Illinois. Though no one thought he could win, and despite getting bumped by an-other horse coming out of the starting gate, he won the 96th running of the Kentucky Derby in

1970. This award celebrates his achievements and seeks to honor a horse who shares Dust Command-er’s spirit of excellence. An annual award honoring a horse, pony, mini, don-key, hinny or mule; to recognize special valor or out-standing competitive achievement. Criteria: If the horse is being nominated for competitive

achievements, the horse currently resides in Illi-nois. Applications from Illinois-bred horses are strongly encouraged. Outstanding results from competitions in equestrian sports including eventing, racing, reining, driving, hunter/jumper, distance riding etc. will be considered.

If the horse is being nominated for valor or hero-ism, the acts must have taken place in Illinois and the horse currently resides in Illinois. Quali-fying acts could include enhancing/prolonging/enriching a patients’ life through an equine thera-py program, valorous service as a police horse, in assisting in locating a lost person, saving an-other animal’s or a human’s life etc.

Award may be posthumous. Animal may only receive the award once, and

only one award will be given out each year.

We all know a deserving person or horse.

Don’t wait - let HCI know who they are!

NOMINATION FORM ON NEXT PAGE

Horsemen’s Council of Illinois Spring 2016 Page 6 Page 7 Horsemen’s Council of Illinois Spring 2016

The large venue of the Illinois State Fairgrounds provided abundant opportunities for nearly 14,000 in attendance to experience “Ride Your Dream” at Illinois Horse Fair 2016 on March 4th through 6th. More than 20 buildings, 4 arenas, 2 demonstration areas, 4 classrooms and 95,000 square feet of shopping were filled with evidence that the horse industry in Illinois is thriving. The annual Illinois Horse Fair is the primary fundraiser for Horsemen’s Council of Illinois who uses the proceeds to educate, mobilize and represent horsemen and the equine industry.

More than 230 horses along with their riders and handlers took up residence to put on demonstrations, participate in clinics, challenges, and show the horse-hungry public their “stuff”. Whether from the saddle or the stands, dressage, rodeo, barrel racing, cutting and liberty are just some of the dozens of ways participants and spectators enjoyed the week-end. The large number of vendors satisfied the appetites for shopping and food. Wooten Rodeo filled the coliseum both nights.

Dawson Performance Horses, Tim Boyer, Brody Robertson, Lyle East, Curt & Polly Hagey, Gary Lane, Marilyn Weber and Smith Lilly provided nearly 90 clinic sessions and hundreds of hours of education and personal interaction with participants eager to sharpen their skills in a variety of disciplines.

Governor Rauner visited on Friday and IDNR Director Rosenthal attended on Saturday. Both were impressed by the diversity of the horse industry and its impact on the state economy. Since Horse Fair, the Governor has issued a proclamation declaring December 13 Illinois Day of the Horse. And, the staff of IDNR welcomed a new partners with horsemen in our first annual Trail Work Days.

More than 160 volunteers provided manpower throughout the weekend to ensure all aspects of the fair ran smoothly.

The IHF Committee has been working for months planning for 2017. New management is being hired and planning has begun for Illinois Horse Fair 2017 to be held March 3rd through 5th. We will be seeking volunteers, clinicians, educators, exhibitors and vendors. If you want to be part of the planning, please let us know.

2016 Illinois Horse Fair

Committee

Ron Rhoades, Event Manager

Amy Nelson, Communications

Karen Jones, Ticketing

Melinda Bell, Vendors

Cindy Johnson, Fashion Show

Anne Marie Connelly, Queen Contest

Debra Hagstrom, Youth Judging

Sheree King, Seminars

Paula Liefel, Breed Demos

Jerry Sutton, Rodeo & Coliseum

Cheryl Dement, Volunteers

Rhonda Baum, Horses for Sale

Paula Briney, English Clinics

Tim Boyer, Western Clinics

Dave Nobbe, Heartland Horseman’s Challenge

Kim Stout-Brown, Stallion & Stabling

Jim Stevens, Annex & Livestock Center

Kim Dresch, Hospitality

Russ Derango, Operations

Tony Troyer, Carriage & Draft

Cheryl Waterman, HCI Staff

P O Box 788 Quincy, IL 62306-0788 Phone: 217-689-4224 Email: hci@horsemenscouncil.org ihf@ihorsemenscouncil.org

www.horsemenscouncil.org www.illinoishorsefair.com

2016 Illinois Horse Fair & Horsemen’s Council Sponsors

Adam Richardson is presented the Heartland Horseman’s

Challenge trophy by Sandy Chatten with ADM